Growing up in Beaumont, Texas, Tom enjoyed a rare experience for that time... a marvelous music curriculum in the public schools. Supported by the taxes from the Spindletop oil field, Beaumont's public schools possessed the finest instruments and instruction available.

Additionally unique was the opportunity to study with a great trumpet teacher, Everette James. Mr. James was the father of Harry James, leader of one of the top big bands of that era and arguably the best trumpet player of his generation. Harry, during the hey-day of the big bands, was releasing new recordings weekly. These recordings provided all the motivation Tom needed to practice and to become the best player possible. He began playing professionally with local bands when he was fourteen years-old.

Winner of several honors including being selected Principal Trumpet in the All-State High School Orchestra, Tom attended, and graduated from Sam Houston State University. He directed bands in public schools of Texas for seven years prior to pursuing higher graduate studies full time. He received the Ph.D. from The University of Texas and embarked on a long career in the administration of higher education. During his time at UT, he studied composition with J. Clifton Williams and was an arranger for The University of Texas Longhorn Band directed by Vincent R. DiNino. Retiring after presiding over three community colleges for twenty-seven years, Tom returned to his musical roots.

Tom resides in the beautiful Wimberley Valley of the Texas Hill Country enjoying private teaching, composing, arranging, publishing and performing in various ensembles and genres.